Clayton Beddoes ’94
Clayton Beddoes ’94 ranks among the most accomplished players in Laker hockey history. Recruited to Lake Superior State in 1989 by legendary coaches Jeff Jackson and Jim Roque, Beddoes went on to play a pivotal role in helping LSSU capture NCAA Division I National Championships in 1992 and 1994 while establishing himself as one of the premier players in college hockey.
A dynamic forward and respected leader, Beddoes appeared in 172 games during his Laker career, recording 71 goals and 127 assists for 198 points. During his senior season, he served as team captain and led the Lakers to their third NCAA Division I National Championship, finishing the year with 23 goals and 31 assists for 54 points. At the time of his 2026 Lake Superior State Athletics Hall of Fame induction, Beddoes ranked sixth in program history with 198 career points. He also ranked third all-time in career assists (127) and 14th in career goals (71).
Beddoes’ outstanding collegiate career earned him numerous honors, including CCHA All-Rookie Team and CCHA Tournament MVP recognition in 1991, three consecutive CCHA All-Academic Team selections (1992-94), NCAA All-Tournament Team honors in 1994, Second Team All-CCHA recognition in 1994, and Second Team NCAA All-American honors in 1994. A two-time NCAA champion, Beddoes’ dedication to excellence both on the ice and in the classroom exemplified the values of Lake Superior State University and helped set a standard for future generations of Lakers.
Following his collegiate career, Beddoes continued his playing career at the professional level, including time with the NHL’s Boston Bruins and a Spengler Cup championship with Team Canada. He later transitioned into coaching, continuing to make an impact on the international hockey stage. Beddoes has coached in 13 IIHF tournaments, including serving with China’s men’s team at the 2022 Olympic Games, helping Italy earn IIHF promotion in 2019, coaching Italy at the 2020 IIHF Pool A World Championship, and helping China’s women’s team earn IIHF promotion in 2022.
Today, Beddoes remains deeply involved in the game as an assistant coach with the Seattle Torrent of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). He and his wife, Cori, are the proud parents of three sons: Leonard (18), Nicholas (17), and Joe (16). From his championship career as a Laker to his continued contributions as a professional player and coach, Beddoes’ impact on hockey reflects a lifelong commitment to excellence and the enduring tradition of Lake Superior State hockey.